Maryam Nawaz slammed for 'enjoying fresh air' as Pakistanis struggle to breathe

Lahore: Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Pakistan's Punjab province, is facing sharp criticism from opposition leaders after embarking on a trip to Europe while several cities in Punjab, including Lahore and Multan, are grappling with a severe smog crisis. The region has become one of the most polluted in the world.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed that the Punjab CM is in Geneva for a medical checkup related to her thyroid gland and is expected to visit London before returning next week.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Information Advisor Ali Saif criticized Maryam Nawaz for traveling in a private jet while the people of Punjab struggle to breathe. "The plane was reportedly filled with trunks and suitcases. The country's condition is dire, but their royal expenses show no sign of ending," Saif remarked. He also pointed out that despite holding multiple terms in power, the family had failed to establish hospitals where they could receive treatment.

Meanwhile, the smog crisis continues to worsen, with air quality in major cities reaching hazardous levels. Multan's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 1914 on Saturday, while Lahore peaked at 970, making them the most polluted cities in the world. In response, the provincial government declared a 'smog calamity' across Punjab, closing schools until November 17 and imposing a ban on public access to parks, zoos, and other recreational spaces.

A petition was also filed in the Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday by a three-year-old girl, Amal Sekhera, highlighting the severe impact of air pollution on children and the elderly. The petition accused the Punjab government of failing to protect citizens' constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment.

According to the Swiss air quality monitor IQAir, Lahore has consistently topped the list of the world's most polluted cities, with AQI levels exceeding 1000 in recent weeks. The smog has also affected neighboring cities, including Kasur, Sheikhupura, Muridke, and Gujranwala.

(IANS with edits)